New York Sees Record Number of Flu Hospitalizations in Single Week, Experts Warn of Severe Season Ahead.
In a stark warning, health officials in New York have confirmed that over 4,500 residents were hospitalized with the flu last week - a staggering new high. This represents a 24% spike from just one week prior, leaving experts concerned about the severity of this season's flu cases.
According to Dr. James McDonald, state Health Commissioner, nearly 1,000 more people ended up in hospital during this latest seven-day period compared to the previous week. "We are having a more severe flu season than prior years," he said, emphasizing that there is still time for individuals to get vaccinated and receive treatment with antiviral medication if symptoms begin within 48 hours.
The alarming trend isn't limited to hospitalizations alone. The total number of people diagnosed with the flu, including those not requiring hospitalization, also hit a record high last month - over 72,000 cases. However, cases dropped significantly by about one-third in the latest week, standing at around 49,000.
Health officials stress that certain groups are disproportionately at risk for developing severe complications from the flu. These include children under six, pregnant women, individuals with chronic medical conditions, and those aged 65 or older.
For these high-risk populations and anyone looking to minimize their exposure, health experts recommend a multi-faceted approach to prevent the spread of influenza. This includes getting vaccinated at pharmacies, healthcare clinics, or doctor's offices; frequently washing hands with soap for at least 20 seconds; thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched areas; staying home when unwell; avoiding touching one's eyes, nose, mouth with unwashed hands; and coughing or sneezing into a tissue before discarding it.
In a stark warning, health officials in New York have confirmed that over 4,500 residents were hospitalized with the flu last week - a staggering new high. This represents a 24% spike from just one week prior, leaving experts concerned about the severity of this season's flu cases.
According to Dr. James McDonald, state Health Commissioner, nearly 1,000 more people ended up in hospital during this latest seven-day period compared to the previous week. "We are having a more severe flu season than prior years," he said, emphasizing that there is still time for individuals to get vaccinated and receive treatment with antiviral medication if symptoms begin within 48 hours.
The alarming trend isn't limited to hospitalizations alone. The total number of people diagnosed with the flu, including those not requiring hospitalization, also hit a record high last month - over 72,000 cases. However, cases dropped significantly by about one-third in the latest week, standing at around 49,000.
Health officials stress that certain groups are disproportionately at risk for developing severe complications from the flu. These include children under six, pregnant women, individuals with chronic medical conditions, and those aged 65 or older.
For these high-risk populations and anyone looking to minimize their exposure, health experts recommend a multi-faceted approach to prevent the spread of influenza. This includes getting vaccinated at pharmacies, healthcare clinics, or doctor's offices; frequently washing hands with soap for at least 20 seconds; thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched areas; staying home when unwell; avoiding touching one's eyes, nose, mouth with unwashed hands; and coughing or sneezing into a tissue before discarding it.
! 4,500 people hospitalized in one week is crazy 
. Can't we just get a break from all this sickness? 
But seriously, Dr. McDonald's right - vaccination and antiviral treatment can make a big difference 
. I'm gonna make sure to get my flu shot ASAP and wash those hands like they're going out of style 
.
I'm not surprised tho, I've been hearing rumors about this season being super bad... my aunt has a friend who works at a hospital and she said they're already slammed. 
And yeah, certain groups are definitely more vulnerable to severe complications... my mom is 65 and we need to make sure she gets her shots on time 
. What if they're trying to create a sense of urgency for the vaccine? Like, we need to act fast before the "deadly" flu spreads even further 
. And what about all these high-risk groups, like kids and seniors... sounds like a setup for some big pharma deal 
. I mean, have you seen those commercials for the new flu meds? Too convenient, if you ask me 
. We gotta keep an eye on this one, folks 
.
! 4,500 people hospitalized in ONE WEEK is crazy talk 
. And to make matters worse, cases are still spiking with over 72k diagnosed last month 
. We need to take this super serious, especially for our elderly and those with chronic conditions 
. I'm all about that flu shot life 
, so if you haven't gotten yours yet, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? 
Wash those hands, stay home when sick, and let's keep this virus from spreading like wildfire 
. Stay safe, folks! 
. I'm all for getting vaccinated but come on people, we need to be more proactive about this 
. Wash those hands regularly, don't touch your face, cover your mouth when you cough... basic hygiene 101 
. But noooo, people are still spreading it left and right 
. Get vaccinated, get tested, stay home if you're sick... let's do this 
!
Those high-risk groups need our extra love and care 
. And can we talk about how awesome it is that we have access to antiviral meds? Game-changer! 
. Stay healthy, NY! 
and can we pls prioritize those high-risk groups? they need extra care and love